Safe and Fun Retirement Home in Kingston

Andrea Ruiz is a multi-talented health care professional who helps when and where she is needed.

When the pandemic struck in mid-March 2020, she was working as a PSW at Helen Henderson Care Centre and studying to become a Recreation Professional; her dream-job.

Shortly after beginning her new position in the home’s Recreation Department, she was asked to return to work as a PSW to shore-up the lack of health care workers caused by the pandemic. Andrea said yes.

A few months later in April 2021, she returned to the recreation job she worked so hard to obtain.

“I love it,” she exclaims when asked about her job. “I love working with seniors, especially those with dementia and Alzheimer’s. It’s my passion. I want them to know they matter and that they are heard. My past has taught me the importance of having a voice for others. I think it’s important to carry that over to this work. Putting a smile on someone’s face makes them feel safe and comfortable. I like to bring people joy and bring them back to themselves. That’s why I’m here. I feel like that’s what I’m meant to do.”

Although she is missed in the Nursing Department, Andrea has already proven to be an asset in the Recreation Department which earned her the home’s Employee of the Month award for May.